Damien Hirst and other artists transform Stormtrooper helmets into works of art

This one is going to make the Star Wars and most Sci-fi fans of the world rejoice, after Adidas’ attempt of giving the trooper’s skull a sporty twist, Art Wars is exhibiting transformed Stormtrooper helmets by stellar talents of the art scene including Damien Hirst, illustrious photographer David Bailey, Paul Fryer, Joana Vasconcelos, Turner prize nominee Yinka Shonibare, Mat Collishaw, Mr.Brainwash, East London’s ‘Alphabet Street’ creator Ben Eine, Antony Micallef, rising star Oliver Clegg and Jake and Dinos Chapman. Andrew Ainsworth, creator of the original Stormtrooper figure from Star Wars was roped in by Art Below founder Ben Moore for the project in association with Missing People Charity.
Founded in 2007 by artist/entrepreneur Moore with Ainsworth, Art Wars has its name seeking some inspiration from the conflict and struggle for ownership of one of the biggest icons in contemporary culture, The StormTrooper. But while Star Wars buffs await the exhibit in excitement, Art Wars has a wistful tale to tell.

In 2003, Ben’s brother Thomas left his family home and hasn’t been heard of since. Ben tried to track him for three years but to no avail. ‘I am excited about the potential of Art Wars to raise awareness, not just for my brother Tom’s disappearance, but also for the Missing People Charity and the work they do day in and day out. I am very grateful to the participating artists for giving their time and energy to this project and really believe that with their support we will find Tom,’ says he.

All artists have been issued Stormtrooper helmet casts from the original 1976 molds. The resulting artistic pieces will be on display in the inaugural Strarta Art Fair at London’s Saatchi Gallery from October 9-13. Art Wars will also be splashed across billboard space on an entire platform of Regent’s Park Underground station for four weeks, coinciding with art fair, Frieze, from October 17-20. Proceeds from the exhibition and the following auction will go towards the ‘Missing Tom’ fund. In the past, Star Wars’ Darth Vader and Boba Fetts have already devoted to charity.